Samoan Homecoming

Earlier in the day we provided you with a link by ESPN LA's Pedro Moura regarding the surname change of USC running backs coach Kennedy Pola.

Pola, a native of Pogo Pogo, American Samoa, made the decision during a trip this past week to his homeland. He was joined by the several Trojans for the 4,780-mile trip including: USC center Khaled Holmes, former NFL tight end Alex Holmes, Arizona Cardinals' guard Deuce Lutui and Cincinnati Bengals' linebacker Rey Maualuga.

And of course, 2010 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award-winner Troy Polamulu (Pola's cousin).

While the trip was a homecoming of sorts, Polamulu's foundation sponsored a football camp this past week (June 28-30) for Samoan youths, with the hopes that the camp goers would not only learn American football rules but also the importance of making positive choices in their day-to-day lives.

"I am excited to return to my homeland," Polamulu said in an open letter to Governor Togiola Tulufono before arriving. "I have been blessed with so much in my life and look forward to sharing my experiences."

Although the camp was initially scheduled for 600-700 kids, reports are that the camp numbers wildly exceeded their expectations.